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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.